The Scarlet Cord

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

There are so many stories from the Bible that document this verse in not only theory but reality. One of the most unapologetic stories told is the story of Rahab, the prostitute who by her faith was essential in a major victory for God’s people. She heard how God had performed miracles on behalf of His people, and was certain that her city would fall. She was actively making a living as a prostitute when she entered into an oath to help God’s people escape while planning their takeover. The agreement went like this: 'Since I helped you in the planning of the defeat, please help me and my family when the city is taken over.' When they attached, her mark of inclusion would be a simple red cord that hung in the window. She could have easily felt that because of her imperfect lifestyle she didn’t deserve to live. She could have been riddled with such shame and embarrassment that she felt unworthy to enter into an oath. But thankfully, she allowed her faith to paint a different picture of who she was. She was worthy of saving...she was invited into deliverance...she was not defined by her past choices.  She bought in to the fact that God was God, and everyone was invited into His family. She didn’t wait until she was a cleaned-up version of herself to act on behalf of God. She came to the table with filthy rags…a list of sins stamped upon her life. She courageously hung a scarlet cord in the window to stand out that she belonged to Him.

It doesn’t matter what we have done in the past or in what activity we are still engaging. When we determine that enough is enough, we can fly our white flag in surrender. While we are still imperfect we are invited to seek deliverance and redemption. Through the blood of Christ, we are recognized as one of His beloved children. When Christ truly becomes our life, others will see the Scarlet Cord hanging in the windows of our heart through our actions. We don’t have to wait until we are best versions of ourselves to turn to God. That is the whole point: It takes God to transform us into the best versions of ourselves.

"For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God." Colossians 3:3.